Wind STEP Program

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The Wind-STEP program is a two-week summer experience. The program will introduce Native American high school students to careers in science, GIS (Geographical Information Science) and wind energy.

Eligibility

If you are a rising junior or senior and have done well in Intermediate Algebra and Sophomore English and have an interest in science, this program is for you. Note: Some exceptions will be made for students younger than 10th grade.

Cost

This program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) so there is no cost to attend. UMM will provide room and board and meals will be provided in one of the UMM Dining halls. The program also gives you access to labs and any research supplies needed. Additionally, in many cases, Wind-STEP can arrange transportation to and from the program.

Expectations

You should be willing to work in groups and commit your entire day to the program. This program will keep you busy, but we make time for picnics, excursion and other fun activities. You will take field trips to Pipestone National Monument, the Prairie Coteau in South Dakota and the Minnesota River Valley.

Program Dates

Monday June 15 through Friday June 26, 2015.

Learning Outcomes

The Wind-STEP program will teach you how to use GIS software. GIS allows us to view, understand and interpret data in many ways that reveal relationships, patterns, and trends in the form of maps. GIS helps you answer questions and solve problems by looking at your data in a way that is quickly understood and easily shared.

In the Wind-STEP program, you will take the GIS software and learn how to asses environmental concerns and then model a wind energy turbine system. Your research model will include data on:

Energy needs

Wind speed

Land ownership

Population distribution

Soils

Endangered species

Land elevation

Using this information you will determine the location, number and type of wind turbines to be emplaced.

You will also learn about alternative energy, environmental science, science careers and opportunities in wind generated power. You will also learn how to give a scientific presentation.

Who Is Involved

Wind-STEP will include 10 to 12 participants, 4 teaching assistants and 3 faculty members. Participants and the teaching assistants will live in an on-campus residence hall along with 1 faculty member.

Apply

To apply please complete and submit the online application. We will accept applications until the program is full.

You must also have a letter of recommendation completed by a teacher or administrator. Please have them mail or e-mail the letter to:

If you have been accepted to the program your parent or guardian will need to complete the “Medical Release” and “Waiver and Photo/Media Release” forms. Links to these forms can be found on the left hand side of this page.

This program is funded by a grant from the National Science Foundations Improving Undergraduate STEM Education (IUSE) Program (NSF / DUE-1432383).

The University of Minnesota, Morris is a public liberal arts University that provides a rigorous undergraduate liberal arts education, preparing its students to be global citizens who value and pursue intellectual growth, civic engagement, intercultural competence, and environmental stewardship.